Emma Raducanu Set For Auckland Open Return Ahead Of Australian Open

Emma Raducanu prepares for comeback at Auckland Open

Emma Raducanu is poised to return to professional tennis at the Auckland Open in early January, marking her first competitive appearance since April 2023. The British star has been sidelined for over eight months due to surgeries on her wrists and ankle, and her comeback is eagerly anticipated by tennis fans and pundits alike.

Raducanu’s absence followed persistent injury struggles after her historic 2021 US Open triumph, where she became the first qualifier to win a Grand Slam title. Since then, she has endured multiple operations, including procedures on both wrists and an ankle surgery, which have hampered her ability to compete consistently on the WTA Tour.

The challenge of Australian Open entry

Although Raducanu has signed up for the 2024 Australian Open entry list, her current ranking of 296 means she is not automatically qualified for the main draw. She has entered using her protected ranking of 103, a system designed to help injured players re-enter tournaments at their previous ranking level. However, this ranking places her as an alternate and likely means she must either win through the qualifying rounds or receive a wild card.

The Australian Open qualifiers begin on 8 January, with the main tournament starting on 14 January at Melbourne Park. Given the tournament's tradition of prioritising Australian players for wild cards, Raducanu faces the tough prospect of having to win three qualifying matches to secure her spot in the main draw. This scenario is reminiscent of her breakthrough run at the 2021 US Open, highlighting both the challenge and opportunity ahead.

The significance of the protected ranking

Raducanu’s protected ranking is a vital tool in her comeback strategy. This special ranking allows players who have been inactive due to long-term injury to enter tournaments without the disadvantage of a diminished current ranking. For Raducanu, ranked 296 after her hiatus, the protected ranking of 103 reflects her standing before injury setbacks.

This mechanism has been utilised by numerous players returning from injury, offering them a competitive chance to regain form without starting from the bottom of the rankings. However, it does not guarantee direct entry into all tournaments, as seen in Raducanu’s situation with the Australian Open.

Training and preparation for 2024 season

Since her surgeries, Raducanu has been ramping up her training regimen, notably at the National Tennis Centre in London. Recently, she was also spotted training in Hong Kong while attending sponsor events, signalling her increasing readiness to compete at the highest level again. These training sessions are critical for rebuilding match fitness and confidence ahead of the demanding tennis season.

The Auckland Open, broadcast live on Sky Sports, offers an ideal platform for Raducanu to test her form against strong competition before the Australian Open. The tournament also features rising stars like Coco Gauff, increasing the level of competition and viewer interest.

Sky Sports and tennis coverage in 2024

Sky Sports’ expanded five-year partnership with the ATP and WTA tours promises comprehensive tennis coverage throughout 2024. Fans will be able to watch live matches, highlights, and expert analysis, making it the go-to destination for tennis enthusiasts in the UK.

Non-Sky subscribers can access tennis content through a NOW Sports Monthly membership, ensuring broad accessibility. Moreover, Sky Sports News and digital platforms will provide deeper insights and updates on players like Raducanu, keeping fans engaged throughout the season.

The road ahead: What to expect from Raducanu

Emma Raducanu’s return carries significant expectations given her early career success and the injuries that have interrupted her trajectory. While the challenge of re-establishing herself in the top tier is considerable, her history of resilience and breakthrough performances offers hope.

Should Raducanu navigate the Auckland Open successfully and secure a place at the Australian Open — either through qualifying or a wild card — it could mark a major step in her comeback. Her progress will be closely watched not only by British fans but also by the global tennis community.

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Looking forward to a promising tennis season

With Raducanu’s return set against a backdrop of exciting tennis events and new broadcasting deals, 2024 promises to be an engaging year for the sport in the UK. Fans can look forward to witnessing whether this young British talent can regain her top form and inspire the next generation.

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